Oral Conscious Sedation: Making Dentistry Less Stressful With Dr. Hedge

Oral Conscious Sedation: Making Dentistry Less Stressful With Dr. Hedge

If the thought of going to the dentist makes you tremble, there may be a solution for you. Oral conscious sedation is a proven method of taking the fear out of dentistry, and our Houston cosmetic dentists are trained and experienced in this sedation technique.

What Is Oral Conscious Sedation?

Oral sedation is typically an anti-anxiety medication given in pill form an hour or so before the dental procedure. The medication induces a relaxed state that can make the patient feel like the visit was very short, even when the procedure takes several hours. However, the patient is conscious and able to respond to questions throughout the procedure.

For some people, the idea of being unconscious is just as scary as the dental procedure itself. Not only do many patients prefer to be awake during the procedure, but a conscious patient also is easier for the dentist. Being able to communicate with the patient makes the dentist’s job easier, and lowers the stress level for everyone involved.

Why Oral Sedation?

If anxiety is keeping you from getting the dental care you need, then oral sedation might be for you. Other reasons why we might recommend oral conscious sedation include:

A sensitive gag reflex

Insensitivity to local anesthetic

Neck or back problems that make it difficult to rest comfortably in the exam chair

Halcion

Several anti-anxiety medications are used in oral conscious sedation. Halcion is one of the more popular options, because it can be taken in pill form and doesn’t have long-term effects, so recuperation is quick. However, you will not be able to drive home from your appointment, so you will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.

Halcion does have some side effects, such as drowsiness, muscle pain and constipation, but these are typically mild. Your dentist will discuss the side effects and benefits of your sedation options with you, as well as your medical history, to decide on an option that’s right for you.

Gentle Houston Dentists

Our Houston dentists want to help you overcome your fear and get the dental care you need. In addition to using oral conscious sedation and other types of sedation dentistry, we treat all of our patients with gentle precision and care. You won’t find any nicked gums here!